Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe

Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is a quick and flavorful dinner recipe that combines tender penne pasta with a creamy tomato sauce, perfectly seasoned with garlic, basil, and hearty Italian sausage. This simple yet satisfying dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual family meals. Packed with bold, rich flavors and finished with freshly grated Parmesan, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that suits any occasion. Customize it with your favorite pasta, adjust the spice level, or add extra vegetables to create a personalized touch to this comforting classic.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 11 ounces hot Italian sausage (see note)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
• 1/2 tablespoon flour
• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Small handful fresh basil, sliced or torn into small pieces
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sausage:
   Remove the sausage meat from its casing and crumble it into a skillet. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate. If there’s excess fat in the skillet, drain most of it.
3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth or white wine and sprinkle in the flour. Whisk the mixture until the flour has dissolved and any browned bits on the bottom of the pan are scraped up. Let the mixture reduce for a couple of minutes.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
   Add the diced tomatoes, their juices, and the cream to the skillet. Stir in the cooked sausage. Let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss with Pasta:
   Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil leaves. Toss the sauce with the cooked penne pasta. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The hot Italian sausage combined with a creamy tomato sauce creates a flavorful base that coats the pasta perfectly.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level by using mild or sweet sausage instead of hot sausage and adding more or less garlic to suit your taste.
• Comforting: Creamy, spicy, and hearty—this dish is a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

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Tips

• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for mild Italian sausage instead of hot sausage.
• Thickening the Sauce: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer or add a touch more flour.
• Use Fresh Tomatoes: For a fresher taste, you can replace the canned tomatoes with fresh diced tomatoes, but you may need to cook them a bit longer to break down.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Swap the penne for gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Option: Try using plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu as a substitute for the Italian sausage.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free option.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
This pasta dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, the sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stove and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

What other pasta can I use?
You can use any type of pasta you like, such as rigatoni, spaghetti, or fettuccine.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping in the creamy sauce.
• Wine Pairing: This dish pairs well with a bold red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon.

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Suggestions

• Meal Prep: Make extra sauce to store in the fridge or freezer for a quick meal later in the week.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added veggies and flavor.
• Leftover Pasta: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.